Westminster Middle student, 11, spends night in school

Blair Ames, Bames@tribune.com

A Westminster West Middle School student spent Monday night inside the school because she didn't want to go home after an argument with her mother that morning, according to the Westminster Police Department.

The 11-year-old girl, who was reported missing by family about 9 p.m. Monday, was found inside the school by school staff Tuesday morning, according to Major Ron Stevens.

The student was "fine," Stevens said, and she never left the school throughout the night.

Carroll County Public Schools spokeswoman Carey Gaddis said the school system could not comment on the issue since it involves a student, but they are "thoroughly investigating to find out what happened."

Stevens said once the girl was reported missing, officers checked numerous locations, including local shelters, and interviewed family and friends trying to track her down throughout the night.

He said the girl was able to avoid school staff before they closed the building Monday, but she was found when staff reported to school Tuesday morning.

School staff called the girl's mother to tell her where she had been, he said.

Stevens said the case is being referred to the Department of Juvenile Services.